Concept

Air pollution forecasting

Summary
Air pollution forecasting is the application of science and technology to predict the composition of the air pollution in the atmosphere for a given location and time. An algorithm prediction of the pollutant concentrations can be translated into air quality index, same as actual measurements. Countries and cities are given forecasts by state and local government organizations, as well as private companies like Airly, AirVisual, Aerostate, Ambee, BreezoMeter, PlumeLabs, and DRAXIS that provide air pollution forecasts. Air pollution is one of the world’s biggest problems, and it causes respiratory problems, lung diseases, and cardiovascular issues and can contribute to mental health issues and aggravate existing health conditions. It can cause depletion to planetary health equally. Therefore, reducing and making people aware of these problems caused by air pollution becomes essential. With the accurate method of forecasting air pollution, it becomes easier to manage and mitigate the risks of air pollution and ensure a safe level of pollutant concentration in the region. It also helps assess risks to the environment and the climate caused by poor air quality standards. Accurate forecasting can also lead to ease in planning day-to-day activities, avoiding locations with high alert areas, and implementing effective pollution control measures. As with weather forecasting, air pollution forecasting involves the central idea of taking a current snapshot of the atmosphere and using computer simulation to predict what happens next. A typical algorithm uses the following components: An input of current air quality, monitored by local stations and remote sensing. An input of the forecasted weather during the period of prediction, to predict any pollutant's movement. A model of pollutant emission. This can include traffic, industry, and pollen. The cycles of pollutant emission range from daily to weekly (for human commute) and yearly (for pollen and coal-burning). Non-periodic sources such as wildfire are also considered when known.
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